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Sacred Stone is a rock band with a difference!

The band was founded in 1997 by Adrian Blenkinsop, with a structure that enables team members to change every 1-2 years. Since the band began there has been around 23 different members of Sacred Stone – in 5 different line-ups, with Adrian being the one constant member.

It's a pretty unique way for a band to operate, and it means that the style, sound and look of the band is constantly changing! It also gives different young Christian musicians the opportunity to be a part of this unique ministry.

The early years

In May of 1998 Sacred Stone played its first live gig to over 300 people at the launch of their debut CD titled 'Fall'. The band won the 'Best Unsigned Band' on the National Austereo Radio Network in 1998, and also performed live on the Adelaide television program 'AM Adelaide'. (Channel 7 Adelaide)

Throughout 1998 and 1999 the band spent over 4 months touring throughout South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria. As well as this touring, they performed regularly in Adelaide. This schedule saw them perform to over 30,000 people a year. Through their life-skills based Christian seminars, they ran programs in over 40 high schools on themes ranging from peer pressure, relationships, choices and self image.

In 2000 Adrian put a new line-up together, as previous members moved on. By September of 2000, the band was out performing again, with a female lead vocalist, and a very different sound and image to the previous line-up.

The release of their 5-track EP 'Bubblebath' (with Australasian distribution through DUCMG) in June 2001 saw them touring extensively through Queensland and New South Wales, and by the end of 2002 the band had toured through NSW, Victoria, Queensland, and country South Australia. Their live concerts, Festival appearances and school seminars had enabled them to perform to around 35,000 young people in 18 months. In May of 2002 the team played its final concert together in Victor Harbour to several hundred young people, and parted company.

In 2003 the next chapter of Sacred Stone began, as Adrian assembled a new line-up, with a focus on presenting seminars in high schools. The seminars are truly unique, and use a mixture of live music, video footage, storytelling, and a question time at the end. The band presented seminars in 29 high schools, to around 12,000 young people in 2003.

2004 saw the team continue to present seminars in South Aussie schools, looking at the issue of what gives people a sense of value and self-worth. Through the songs, video clips, and personal stories, the band shared the message of how a relationship with God is the only thing that can give someone that sense of value. Students were encouraged to check out God for themselves, and see what difference He can make in their lives.

2005...the band took a year off as Adrian became a dad, and just wanted to hang out with his wife and son (Micah), change nappies, and be woken up through the night by a crying baby and lovely stuff like that!

In 2006 and 2007, with a new Stone band, Adrian was back out in schools across South Australia, and presented a message of the difference one person can make in their world!

2008 saw the band line-up change again, with a seminar titled 'Real You', where students are encouraged to discover their true value not through things that constantly change – like image, fashion and trying to be cool, but rather through knowing God and his unconditional acceptance. The band also began performing concerts at youth groups across Adelaide for the first time in many years!

So, to now!

In 2009 the band is unchanged – with just the addition of MC Majik, as he brings his beatboxing and turntabling skills to the guitar rock sounds of the Stone!

Stay tuned as Sacred Stone visits a school near you. If you'd like them to come to your school or youth group, email them at info@sacredstone.com

Jake

What are the most listened to CDs in your collection?

There have been many CD’s that I have listened to since I developed a love for music as a young drummer, some of which I listen to now and cringe at, and others which I still enjoy.

Throughout High School my favourite band was Foo Fighters, and their record ‘The Colour and the Shape’ is undoubtedly their best. It has great balance between heavy and softer songs, and is a little bit experimental. For me, Foo Fighters and Red Hot Chili Peppers define modern rock.

I also am a big fan of Led Zeppelin, mainly their first three albums. The musicianship of the group is amazing, and John Bonham’s drumming is groundbreaking.

Probably my favourite artist would have to be Keith Green. This guy is so intense about his passion for finding God and a meaning for life that you get chills when you hear his music! Keith Green’s work was and is a source of inspiration to me and helps to draw my focus back to God.

The most boring movie you’ve ever seen?

Being an English student forces you to watch some pretty tedious gear. I remember the agony of watching a film adaptation of King Lear, and the confusion of trying to decipher Waiting For Godot, but probably the most boring movie I have ever seen was Lost in Translation. Do yourself a favour and skip this movie because NOTHING HAPPENS!

What would you bring to a desert island?

This one is very straight forward. I would bring a dentist, (so that I wouldn’t have to knock my teeth out with ice skates like Tom Hanks does in Cast Away) a Bible, a guitar, a harmonica and a drum kit.

About me...

Hmmm... where to start? Well, I’m 21 years old and live in the Adelaide hills with my cool family of five. For most of my life I’ve been on stage drumming and playing a bit of piano, but recently started branching out into guitar and singing. Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not trying to be the most all-rounded muso on the planet, I just like the idea of improving my knowledge in different areas... I still play and teach drums, and have recently started playing some gigs with a group called The Living Daylights....

I’ve grown up in Church, and I don’t have any of those massive “I was lost and now I’m found” stories. The fact is, I realised that God was real at a young age and have been reaping the benefits of living closely with Him ever since.

Kerryn

What are the most listened to CD's in your collection?

Well, I am definitely a huge fan of Foo Fighters and Snow Patrol… nothing beats great lyrics with a catchy tune! Because of my Hip Hop past I love anything pumpy and fun to dance to (Missy Elliott has some sick songs although her lyrics aren't all that tasteful) and I also love hardcore music!

I am also a major fan of a small band called The Living Daylights. It was formed by some of my close friends and they have awesome lyrics and fantastic songs! I think it is so vital to surround yourself in music that is uplifting with decent lyrics and a positive message. I believe what goes in must come out, therefore putting bad music into your head can often produce a bad attitude.

The most boring movie you've ever seen?

Even though it is not exactly a movie, I would have to say the hundreds of biology videos I had to watch throughout my entire schooling. I mean, some were interesting, and as weird as it may sound, I actually love biology (it fascinates me how our bodies work), but there were always a few videos that would put the most psychotic person dosed up on caffeine to sleep! Watching how grass grows isn't really my cup of tea!

What would I bring to a desert island?

First of all I would bring a bible (my relationship with God is number one in my life). I would bring the obvious things like food and water (and undoubtedly chocolate!!), music, a basketball called Wilson (or a straightjacket)… and just to be extremely logical…. A boat!!!

About me…

Ummm, well… my name is Kerryn, I am 18 years old and I live about 15 minutes north of the city. I have 3 older brothers who I love to pieces and get along with really well. I live with my mum and dad and one of my brothers. I have done hip hop dance for about 5 years or so. I work at Spotlight (yes, with the grandmas!!) and I absolutely love basketball. I am studying Health Science at Uni SA and eventually want to become an Occupational Therapist who specialises in Paediatrics (children). I love music!! Used to play flute and piano, then started singing lessons. Just these last couple of years I picked up the piano again. I am attempting to learn guitar at the moment and am loving it… beautiful instrument!

The most important thing that you should know about me is that I love God with all my heart. I am really amazed that God NEVER stops loving me and NEVER loves me any less! I am beautiful in His eyes (like EVERY person He has created… including YOU!) and He loves me for who I am and not what I wear, how I do my make up, how many friends I have or how I act.

I reckon God is worth checking out for yourself!

Matt

Most listened-to CD in your collection?

'Morning View' by Incubus – first of all Jose the drummer is amazing on this album. Nails everything with great grooves, great licks and great colour in his playing!! That last bit was for the drummers … but great album, great band never get sick of it … if you don't have it, get it quick!!

Last book read?

A book called “living outside the box” by Ivan Herald. Really cool book, great for anyone in today's society. As we live in a society that is quick to judge and look down on people. It talks bout not accepting the negativity that gets poured into us, by whatever means. Crappy stuff is always gonna' happen; let's not get buried under but overcome it by being positive and living outside the box!!

If you were alone on a desert island, what's the one thing you would have with you? Why?

Hmmm … do I take the question seriously or try and make people laugh??? One thing I would take on the island would be, my sweetheart Stace. BUT I would get her to smuggle in her back pocket my ipod and a mini bible. WHY? The ipod coz music … it inspires, it's life! The bible, It's the map of life and Stace … coz she's pretty!!

Some info about me and my life so far…

I was born in the Adelaide Hills, and up till now had lived there all my life … moving around from Aldgate, Hahndorf, Littlehampton, Hahndorf again and now I'm living right next to Macca's on Goodwood rd, just outside the city!

I grew up in a cool family environment with my folks and two brothers. Once I finished high school, at Cornerstone College, my parents and little brother headed down to Goolwa and me and my older bro stayed in civilisation and moved to Clarence Park. It's interesting learning not to rely on your parents for everything hey!!! Hmmm ….

So high school was real interesting, I grew up going to church, my dad is a pastor so I was introduced fairly early. I didn't dig God and religion for most of my high school years. Figured it was a bunch of rules you had to live by. It wasn't until I started coming home from school really mad, hurt, depressed and angry that I realised I can't put my hope in myself, or in my mates or in my newest girlfriend … it needs to be in something rock solid, something eternal. He was right there, the whole time, waiting for me to open up and acknowledge him … Jesus has saved me from all the stuff that inevitably comes around in our walk of life. All the negativity, everything that tells us we're no good … whether it is society, our peers, our parents. Whatever! Jesus came to break that, He died so we may be free from the poo society tries to pin on us! It's not about religion or rules, but its all about a relationship with the creator or life.

“Taste and see that the Lord is good …” That's all I can say. It's a verse we read in the Bible, in Psalm 34 verse 8. That verse always impacts me. “Taste and see …” We try drugs, we try alcohol, we try relationships … why not try Jesus, I promise you won't be disappointed.

Adrian Reid

My most listened to CDs

• MxPx – Let it Happen
• The Mighty Mighty Bosstones – Live from the Middle East
• Propellerheads – Decksandrumandsrockandroll
• Hummel – Rhythm Riots

Desert Island…why?

I would want heaps of music videos and live band sets and the ability to watch them all. I love seeing bands play and being able to continuously view their concerts and videos would be incredible. Also, a Bible would be useful as it would be a fantastic opportunity to spend time learning more about the life God has for all of us.

My fave TV shows

I enjoy watching Rage and love it when some stations play live concerts. I also watch the cricket a lot.

A bit more about me

I have lived most of my life in the southern suburbs of Adelaide. My early years occurred in country South Australia and Northern Territory, but Adelaide is where I have grown up and enjoy living. My parents have taken me to church since the beginning and it was a long time before I was ever allowed to skip church. The main reason for missing church was during year 11 and 12 when I had too much school work to complete. My parents no longer take me, but it is my choice to attend every week. When my University studies get full on it's been important to get to church and spend time with God in the very cool way that church is.

Because of some really influential people in my life I have always had a strong belief in Creation. I believe that God created the world in 6 days and that there is no other alternative. But - believing in Creation is not enough for developing a relationship with Jesus Christ. Most of my school years and into university have been spent with the belief, but not the faith to really comprehend the death of Jesus and its everyday meaning. It is disappointing that throughout high school, church was a place where I was often nervous and uncomfortable being. It should always be a place to find acceptance and peace.

In the past few years, it has become really clear to me that it is very easy in life to find yourself in a period of waiting before your life can move on. Waiting to finish studies, waiting for the right job, car, partner, band, house, etc. It can be easy to feel depressed and dejected about these things, and not living life the way God intended. The knowledge that God has a plan for me, even if not much is revealed, provides me with strength and the ability to find true joy.

My gear

I play an OLP MusicMan Bass into a SWR Workingman's 15 Combo.

Majik

What are the most listened to CDs in your collection?

By far my most favourite album is “And Then Tomorrow Came” by Oz hip hop artists, Muph and Plutonic. Plutonic Lab creates incredibly elaborate and soulful instrumentals over which Muph'n flows over with smooth poetry that contrasts in being mellow, relaxed and mostly monotone. Closely following this is Brother Ali's “the Undisputed Truth”. It's a story of this blokes search to find what is real truth for him.

The music I listen to varies in theme but all my favourite songs seem to have a common theme of exploring deep into people's mindset or highlighting conspiracies.

The most inspiring movie you've ever seen?

Toy Story for sure… the best animated film… No, actually THE best film ever.

What would you take on a desert island?

Probably not at all practical but; Spray cans, Headphones and my Nike shoes

How did you get into beatboxing and turntabling?

I basically started to make sounds that developed into beatboxing in high school. Particularly 'round yr 10 when several of my friends and I breakdanced and didn't always have music. To be honest the first beat boxing that I heard and went “wow that is heaps cool” was actually a Justin Timberlake song. I don't think it is that cool now but it got me interested. From there I just practiced heaps and even convinced the music dept at my school to let me study it as a musical instrument. (Give it a go kids!) I still practice everyday, just the same as any musical instrument. Turn-tabling developed out of this not long after as another one of the elements of Hip-Hop. I saved and saved to get my equipment and upgraded and once again… Practice!

What gear do you use?

Sennheiser microphone for my beatboxing, Technics Headphones, 2x Numark Turntables, 1x Stanton turntable….and lots of Vinyl records!!!!

About me...

G'day, I go by the name MAJIK even though my ma calls me Alex; they call me that 'cos I try pretty hard to write it in spray paint art anywhere I can… not graffiti kids; ask first haha! I basically live breathe and eat HIPHOP. I just happen to be better at beatboxin' than most of the other stuff. Apart from that I go to Uni SA studying Urban Planning and am a builder.

In late 2008 I was involved in a pretty serious car accident in which someone very close to me was really hurt. It was something that sort of woke me up to the fact that in no time at all everything can change. One of those stories you hear and never think will happen to you. It really hammered home that I really shouldn't take anything for granted and should make the most of everything. I also saw that even through all of the pain; the big man is still lookin' out for us all.

Adrian Blenkinsop

Favourite holiday?

Just a few years ago my wife and I spent 2 weeks driving along the Great Ocean road…from Melbourne. Heaps of great scenery, and really relaxing.

Most listened-to CD in your collection?

Probably a U2 CD, All That You Can't Leave Behind.

Favourite food?

A lamb roast…cooked by me!

Greatest sporting achievement?

I was playing footy for Edwardstown Baptist footy club in my early 20's. It was freezing cold Saturday, it was raining, the ball weighed a tonne!, and I kicked 4 goals from a forward flank and got best player!...pretty sad huh!

So what about this God stuff?

When I was younger I called myself a Christian because I was bought up in a strong Christian family, and went to church and youth group every week, and that was basically all I knew! As I grew up, left home and started working I was forced to re-think what I believed and why! I couldn't just believe what my parents believed anymore…I had to figure it out for myself, and decide if there was any truth in what this Jesus bloke was about.

Through talking to other Christians, talking lots to God, and seeing the change that knowing Jesus had made in the lives of some of my friends, I came to the point of believing that Jesus Christ was who he claimed to be…the Son of God, and that I was 'someone' because He created me…and actually likes me the way I am! There's nothing I can do or say that will change what He thinks about me…That means I'm not alone, or a 'mistake', or just another number….I'm someone created and loved by God.

Knowing that gives me a sense of purpose in my life, and a belief that through life's struggles and disappointments, I can trust that God is in control. Kinda like the story of Job in the Bible…who went through some pretty horrific things, but trusted God through it, and ultimately came to see that God had been with him, and been in control all through his difficulties.

Gear

I use a Line 6 Pod (version 2), which in seminars we DI. Otherwise I run it through a Marshal 8008 power amp, into a Marshal JM600 quad box. I use 2 guitars, a Japanese made Fender Stratocaster and a Ibanez Stratocaster.